she/hers
About Me
My role is to work alongside you and your family, taking into account unique personalities, preferences, and life experiences to help propel you toward your goals. I highlight and build on strengths you already have, while helping you and your family create sustainable changes that support health, confidence, and joy around food.
I am especially passionate about supporting neurodivergent individuals and their families. I have received specialized training in feeding therapy approaches for children with autism, ADHD, and other developmental differences, as well as experience working with teens navigating eating disorders and guiding their parents through the process. As a parent of an autistic son, I bring both personal and professional insight into the unique challenges of feeding, sensory sensitivities, and the emotional weight families often carry.
My career path started with curiosity about fueling my own body and learning what worked for me. That curiosity grew into a lifelong desire to help others develop a positive relationship with food. As a Registered Dietitian for over 20 years, I believe that nourishing your body, finding joy in eating, and sharing meals together is one of the most meaningful ways we can care for ourselves and those we love.
At home, I live the feeding challenges I help families with in my work. With two young children — one on the autism spectrum — I’ve learned first-hand that what works beautifully for one child may not work for another. Those experiences have taught me patience, creativity, and compassion, all of which shape the way I work with families today.
Outside of work, I find joy in being outdoors — hiking, biking, gardening, and skiing. Some of my most meaningful time is spent volunteering with Healing Reins Equine Therapies, and coaching my kids sports.
Approach & Philosophy
My work with families is guided by the Ellyn Satter Division of Responsibility in Feeding, helping parents feel confident setting structure around meals while children build trust and confidence in eating. This approach helps reduce stress, supports growth, and encourages children to learn to enjoy a wider variety of foods. I have learned to adapt this method to work with families highlighting their own unique needs.
In my work with teens and adults, I emphasize curiosity and self-compassion. For families navigating eating disorders, I provide support and parent coaching. I know how critical it is to create a supportive feeding environment at home, and I walk alongside parents to help them feel less alone in that journey.
Education & Training
My early career included the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program, followed by St. Vincent Mercy Medical Center, where I specialized in pediatric nutrition, cardiac rehabilitation, and the intensive care unit.
Since moving to the Pacific Northwest more than 15 years ago, I have expanded my training to include Neurodivergent feeding challenges, Renal nutrition, Corporate wellness, and certification as a personal trainer. This background allows me to integrate purposeful movement and fitness into my work when appropriate, always through a lens of inclusivity and sustainability.
Certifications
- NASM certified personal trainer
- ACE certified group fitness trainer
Sara is scheduling new clients at our Bend, OR office and virtually.
Sara works at our Bend office and virtually. You can schedule a discovery call with her here to see if she would be a good fit for you.
Click Here To Schedule